Members of the 2017 Youth Panel visited Hamad International Airport (HIA) to learn how the five-star airport will welcome thousands of football fans to Qatar in 2022.

Panel members met HIA's events, public relations, operations and security teams. They also took a tour of the Airport Hotel, spa and the several lounges, before finding out more about the airport's various art pieces and installations, including the iconic 'Lamp Bear' by Urs Fischer.

Members of the 2017 Youth Panel visited Hamad International Airport (HIA) to learn how the 5 stars airport will welcome thousands of football fans to Qatar in 2022.

Panel members met HIA's events, public relations, operations and security teams. They also took a tour of the Airport Hotel, spa and the several lounges, before finding out more about the airport's various art pieces and installations, including the iconic 'Lamp Bear' by Urs Fischer.

Established in 2015, the Youth Panel was launched to give young people their say on 2022 FIFA World Cup™ plans. Now in its third cycle, the programme aims to inspire youngsters and foster a sense of ownership and pride in the tournament, especially with regard to the legacy it will leave.

Youth Panel member Nada Nivine Kahla, a student at English Modern School, was impressed with the facilities at HIA.

"I thought today was really exciting," said Kahla. "We were introduced to all the new technology at the airport. I really enjoyed the lounges, especially the first-class lounge, which was very comfortable and luxurious.

"You can see the airport is ready to welcome passengers from all around the world, especially for the World Cup in 2022."

Kahla, 16, went on to discuss her Youth Panel experience so far.

"I feel so involved in the project. The Youth Panel has taught me a lot, especially during this visit. It's great for me as I'm passionate about aviation and new technology."

Panel member Osama Mohammed Khater, from Middle East International School, was especially impressed with the airport's e-gate system.

"We learned a lot of valuable information today," said Osama. "I loved learning about the e-gate facility, which allows seamless travel experience. I think it's important to develop new technology, and the airport is leading the way in this regard."

Osama, 17, believes HIA showcases Qatar in a positive light – particularly to first-time visitors.

"For many, the airport will be the first impression of Qatar they receive. It will be great for people to experience the new technology, see the artwork and enjoy the facilities. For me, it is like no other airport in the world."

Khalid Al Jumaily, Community Engagement Manager, thanked HIA for facilitating the visit.

"The visit provided members an opportunity to explore every element of airport facilities," said Al Jumaily. "Everyone found the visit very informative thanks to the airport's expert staff."

Al Jumaily said the visit demonstrated HIA's readiness to host millions of visitors in the lead-up to 2022 and beyond.

"HIA is setting a high standard for airports regionally and internationally. We enjoyed learning about the smart airport concept, which demonstrated the ease of using technology to move quickly and efficiently through the airport."

Hamad International Airport Vice-President Commercial Abdulaziz Al Mass, said: "It was a pleasure to host the Supreme Committee youth panel at our airport. We are firmly committed to our goal to continue further developments in order to ensure smooth operations and easy travel for the millions of international passengers we will be welcoming in 2022."